Morocco is set to construct its first offshore wind farm. The Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) is at the forefront of this development, planning to establish the wind farm in the coast of Essaouira, region known for high wind speeds and ideal maritime conditions, particularly along its Atlantic coast.
The project will be supported by a grant of US $2.1M from the European Investment Bank (EIB). It marks a significant milestone in its renewable energy journey, aligning with Morocco’s goal to generate 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
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Energy ambitions
The Essaouira project represents just the beginning of Morocco‘s offshore wind ambitions. Success here could pave the way for larger-scale developments, positioning Morocco as a regional leader in renewable energy.
The World Bank Group estimates that out of the total offshore wind energy potential, 22 GW is suitable for fixed-bottom turbines due to the shallow waters, making it ideal for such installations. The country already boasts significant investments in solar and onshore wind projects. This diversification strategy enhances energy security and reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels.
MASEN plays a critical role in expanding the country’s renewable energy portfolio. The agency developed the Ouarzazate solar complex, one of the largest in the world. Now, MASEN focuses on offshore wind, an underutilised resource in Morocco.
The EIB’s financial support is critical to this project’s success. With a long history of funding renewable energy, the bank helps MASEN cover initial project costs. Offshore wind projects benefit from this crucial funding, which is typically more expensive than onshore ones.
